The 1987 Chevy Silverado holds a special place in the hearts of truck enthusiasts. Its rugged reliability, classic design, and affordability make it a popular choice for those seeking a vintage pickup. Craigslist, with its vast listings and local focus, can be a treasure trove for finding these gems. However, navigating the online marketplace requires a strategic approach.
This comprehensive guide provides you with the knowledge and tools necessary to successfully find and purchase an 87 Chevy Silverado on Craigslist. We'll cover everything from setting your search parameters to inspecting the vehicle and negotiating the price. This way you will drive away with a classic truck you'll love.
Finding Your Dream Ride: A Comprehensive Guide to Scoring an 87 Chevy Silverado on Craigslist
Why the 1987 Chevy Silverado?
Before diving into the intricacies of Craigslist, let's explore why the 1987 Chevy Silverado remains a desirable choice:
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Classic Design: The square-body Silverado represents an era of simple, functional truck design. Its clean lines and robust stance are instantly recognizable and appealing to many.
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Reliability: These trucks were built to last. With proper maintenance, the 1987 Silverado can provide years of dependable service. Its mechanical simplicity also makes it easier and more affordable to repair than modern vehicles.
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Affordability: Compared to newer trucks, the 1987 Silverado offers a budget-friendly entry point into truck ownership. This makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers or those looking for a project vehicle.
Customization Potential: The 1987 Silverado is a blank canvas for customization. From engine swaps to suspension upgrades, the possibilities are endless for creating a unique and personalized truck.
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Community Support: A large and active community of Silverado enthusiasts exists, providing a wealth of knowledge and support for owners. This is invaluable for maintenance, repairs, and modifications.
Crafting Your Craigslist Search Strategy
Finding the right 87 Chevy Silverado on Craigslist starts with a well-defined search strategy. Here's how to optimize your search:
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Keywords are Key: Use specific and relevant keywords to narrow your search results.
- Start with the basics: "1987 Chevy Silverado," "87 Silverado," "Chevy Truck 1987."
- Add variations: "1987 Chevy C10," "Silverado Square Body," "Classic Chevy Truck."
- Include specific features: "1987 Chevy Silverado 4x4," "Silverado Short Bed," "Silverado Long Bed."
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Location, Location, Location: Craigslist is organized by local areas. Refine your search by selecting the appropriate city or region.
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Expand your search radius: Consider searching neighboring cities or regions if you're willing to travel for the right truck.
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Pro tips from us: Be mindful of the distance when arranging inspections and factor in travel costs.
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Set Your Budget: Determine your maximum budget before you start browsing. This will help you avoid overspending and focus on vehicles within your price range.
- Consider additional costs: Remember to factor in potential repair costs, registration fees, and insurance when setting your budget.
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Filter Your Results: Use Craigslist's built-in filters to refine your search based on criteria such as:
- Price range
- Condition
- Mileage
- Transmission type
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Save Your Searches: Save your frequently used searches to receive notifications when new listings are posted. This will give you a competitive edge in finding the best deals.
Evaluating Craigslist Listings: Separating the Wheat from the Chaff
Once you've started your search, you'll encounter a wide range of listings. It's crucial to evaluate each listing carefully to identify promising candidates and avoid potential scams.
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Pictures Speak Volumes: Listings with multiple, high-quality photos are generally more trustworthy.
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Look for clear pictures of the exterior, interior, engine bay, and undercarriage.
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Be wary of listings with blurry, poorly lit, or missing photos.
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Read the Description Carefully: Pay close attention to the description provided by the seller.
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Look for details about the truck's history, maintenance records, and any known issues.
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Be wary of vague or overly enthusiastic descriptions.
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Question Everything: Don't hesitate to ask the seller questions about the truck.
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Inquire about the truck's title status, accident history, and any modifications that have been made.
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Request additional photos or videos if needed.
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Trust Your Gut: If something feels off about a listing, trust your instincts and move on. It's better to be safe than sorry.
The Importance of a Thorough Inspection
Before making an offer on an 87 Chevy Silverado, it's essential to conduct a thorough inspection. This will help you identify any potential problems and negotiate a fair price.
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Bring a Friend: Having a second set of eyes can be invaluable during the inspection process.
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Check the Exterior: Inspect the body for rust, dents, and other damage.
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Pay close attention to common rust areas, such as the rocker panels, cab corners, and wheel wells.
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Check the paint for signs of fading, peeling, or mismatched colors.
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Examine the Interior: Evaluate the condition of the seats, carpets, and dashboard.
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Check for tears, stains, and other signs of wear and tear.
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Test all the electrical components, such as the lights, radio, and air conditioning.
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Inspect the Engine: Look for signs of leaks, damage, or neglect.
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Check the fluid levels and condition.
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Listen for unusual noises when the engine is running.
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Test Drive the Truck: Take the truck for a test drive to assess its performance.
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Pay attention to the way the truck handles, accelerates, and brakes.
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Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations.
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Consider a Pre-Purchase Inspection: If you're not mechanically inclined, consider having a professional mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection. This can provide you with a detailed assessment of the truck's condition and identify any potential problems.
Negotiating the Price: Getting the Best Deal
Once you've completed the inspection, it's time to negotiate the price. Here are some tips for getting the best deal:
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Do Your Research: Research the market value of similar 87 Chevy Silverados in your area.
- Use online resources such as Kelley Blue Book and NADAguides to get an idea of the truck's worth.
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Be Prepared to Walk Away: Don't be afraid to walk away from a deal if you're not comfortable with the price.
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Point Out Flaws: Use any flaws you discovered during the inspection to justify a lower offer.
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Be Respectful: Maintain a respectful and professional attitude throughout the negotiation process.
- Common mistakes to avoid are getting emotional or making personal attacks.
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Get It in Writing: Once you've reached an agreement, get it in writing. This will protect you in case of any disputes later on.
Finalizing the Purchase: Paperwork and Payment
After agreeing on a price, it's time to finalize the purchase. This involves completing the necessary paperwork and making payment.
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Verify the Ensure that the seller has a clear and valid title to the truck.
- Check for any liens or encumbrances on the title.
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Complete the Bill of Sale: A bill of sale is a legal document that transfers ownership of the truck from the seller to the buyer.
- Make sure the bill of sale includes the truck's VIN, the purchase price, and the date of sale.
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Make Payment: Agree on a method of payment with the seller.
- Cash is often the preferred method, but you may also be able to use a cashier's check or a wire transfer.
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Transfer Ownership: Complete the necessary paperwork to transfer ownership of the truck to your name.
- This typically involves submitting the title and bill of sale to your local DMV.
Staying Safe on Craigslist: Avoiding Scams and Fraud
Craigslist can be a great place to find deals, but it's also important to be aware of the potential risks. Here are some tips for staying safe on Craigslist:
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Meet in Person: Always meet the seller in person to inspect the truck and complete the transaction.
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Meet in a Public Place: Choose a well-lit, public place to meet, such as a shopping center or police station.
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Don't Send Money in Advance: Never send money to the seller before you've seen the truck in person and verified the title.
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Be Wary of Scams: Be aware of common Craigslist scams, such as fake listings, requests for personal information, and attempts to pressure you into making a quick decision.
- Based on my experience, if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Conclusion: Your Dream 87 Chevy Silverado Awaits
Finding an 87 Chevy Silverado on Craigslist can be a rewarding experience. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this guide, you can increase your chances of finding a classic truck that meets your needs and budget. Remember to be patient, do your research, and trust your instincts. With a little effort, you'll be cruising in your dream Silverado in no time. Happy hunting!
External Link: Kelley Blue Book
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